I bought a 54" Hustler Fastrak with a 24hp Kawasaki, new in 2012 and have been very happy with it, with the exception that it rides kind of rough.
If I were in your shoes and only had 1 1/2 acres to mow, I'd go Toro with the suspension seat. That will make Mama really smile!
Zero Turns are a game changer and fun to mow with. Heck, you will probably want to take over mowing duties once you get one!